A study was released last month using previously published data to report on levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) - acompound reported in increasing concentrations in the environment, according to a statement issued by the British Columbia Salmon Farmers Association.
The study findings, which were funded by a US foundation and published in
Environmental Science and Technology, confirm that while PBDEs are present in many fish in North America, there is no evidence to suggest any harm to humans from eating fish with the very low levels reported.
Fresh water fish such as striped bass and mountain whitefish were found to generally have higher levels than salt-water species; rates in wild salmon are highly variable; and there was little difference detected between wild and farmed salmon.
"The difference in levels found in wild or farmed fish is recorded in parts per billion and the levels reported are very low." said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director, BCSFA. "There are two important things for consumers to know. First and most importantly, both wild and farmed salmon are a healthy and nutritious food with significant health benefits. And secondly even though wild BC Chinook had the highest levels reported, there is no meaningful difference between the levels found in wild and farmed salmon. Both are safe." Fish and other seafood products are monitored by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which ensures that levels are within acceptable limits set by Health Canada. As well, the Canadian aquaculture industry takes a proactive approach to addressing issues related to food safety. Industry research programs focus on ensuring food safety and environmental sustainability. According to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, in 2002 the Canadian aquaculture industry reported revenues of $732.3 million up 4.9 per cent from $697.8 million in 2001, with sales of products and services reaching $711.8 million, a 6.0 per cent increase. Of that total, finfish, mostly salmon, accounted for just over 90 per cent of total sales, or $644.3 million. British Columbia, Canada's largest aquaculture-producing province, generated sales of $329.6 million in 2002, up 12.3% from 2001.
